Clinton Family Lawyer
Of all the different areas of law, family law issues are perhaps the most emotional. Family law helps to resolve disputes between people in the same family and often, these disputes are delicate and sensitive. As with all other areas of law, the Tennessee statutes dictate how family law issues are to be resolved. The majority of these issues are resolved outside of the courtroom and end in an agreement between the two parties. Below, our Clinton family lawyer explains the biggest family law issues we can help you resolve.
Divorce and Legal Separation
Those who no longer want to live and act like a married couple in Clinton, and throughout Tennessee, have many options. As in all states, married couples can officially end their marriage by getting a divorce. However, like just a handful of states, Tennessee also recognizes legal separation. Legal separation does not officially end a marriage. It does allow the couple to live separate and apart for a period of time.
To get a divorce in Tennessee, one of the spouses may have to prove there are grounds to end the marriage. Inappropriate marital conduct, habitual drunkenness, and a felony conviction are just a few of the grounds for divorce in Tennessee. If a couple can agree to all the terms of a divorce, they can file on the grounds of irreconcilable differences and neither spouse must prove fault.
Child Custody
Child custody is one of the most contentious aspects of family law. As in all other states, child custody decisions are made according to what is in the child’s best interests. The courts will also attempt to give both parents shared custody. This is thought to be best for the children while also granting parents their rights to form and maintain a bond with their children.
When a child is healthy and happy, the parent who has acted as the primary caregiver during the marriage will likely be awarded primary residential parent status. Like all other aspects of divorce, it is best if parents can agree to a parenting plan but if they cannot, a judge will create the schedule.
Child Support
All parents in Tennessee are required to financially support their minor children. When two spouses get a divorce, the parent who is not awarded primary custody will typically pay the other parent child support. A judge will use established guidelines when determining the details of child support and will consider relevant details such as the cost of care and parenting time.
Our Family Law Attorney in Clinton Can Help with Your Issue
The above are just a few issues that arise in family law. At Fox, Farley, Willis & Burnette, our Clinton family law lawyer can help you through the process, negotiate with the other side, and ensure you receive the fair settlement you are entitled to. Call us now at 865-457-6440 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our experienced attorney and to get the legal help you need.
